These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are spicy, juicy, and full of flavor! Made with ground chicken, hot sauce, and a bit of cheese, they pack a tasty punch.
They’re perfect for game day or any snack craving. I love serving them with a side of ranch for dipping—who doesn’t love that combo? 🏈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish! If you’re looking for a different flavor, you could substitute ground turkey or even ground beef. Just remember, beef might be a bit juicier, while turkey is leaner.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatballs. If you want to go gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers. I sometimes use panko for extra crunch!
Blue Cheese: This adds a sharp flavor that pairs well with buffalo sauce. If you’re not a fan, feel free to swap it out for feta or omit it altogether. Parmesan is another good option if you want a different cheese flavor.
Celery: This is optional but adds a nice crunch. If you want more texture, chopped bell pepper or even shredded carrots could work well.
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined. Also, the breadcrumbs and egg help keep moisture locked in. Baking them at a high temperature helps seal in juices.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and make sure the baking sheet is lined or greased to prevent sticking.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; you want it at 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
- Toss them in warm buffalo sauce right after they come out of the oven for maximum flavor absorption!
Making these small adjustments can lead to the juiciest Buffalo Chicken Meatballs that everyone will enjoy!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery (optional, for texture)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (plus more for tossing)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need about 15-20 minutes to bake the meatballs. So in total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important as it allows the meatballs to cook evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, optional crumbled blue cheese, optional chopped celery, green onions, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix everything gently, making sure not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher meatballs.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Using clean hands or a scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, roughly 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced out.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for about 15-20 minutes. You want them to be cooked through and lightly browned. To be safe, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, you can get the buffalo sauce ready. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the buffalo wing sauce until everything is well combined and warmed through.
6. Toss the Meatballs:
When the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the meatballs and toss gently until they are evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Serve the Meatballs:
Arrange your sauced meatballs on a serving plate. For an extra touch, drizzle some ranch or blue cheese dressing over the top, along with additional crumbled blue cheese and freshly chopped parsley for garnish.
8. Enjoy!
Serve these delicious meatballs immediately with celery sticks and extra dressing on the side for dipping. They’ll be a hit whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a party or as a fun main dish!
Enjoy your spicy, tangy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs that are perfect for any gathering!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken in this recipe. Just be aware that it may be a bit leaner, so keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they stay moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them if you’re short on time.
What Can I Use Instead of Blue Cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your thing, you can easily substitute it with crumbled feta cheese or omit it altogether. Parmesan cheese is also a tasty option that adds a nice flavor without being overwhelming.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs. This will keep the meatballs just as delicious while fitting into a gluten-free diet!
